During a meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken extended condolences to the families of Palestinian civilian victims. Blinken also condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel and outlined US efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating. The Secretary reiterated that Hamas does not represent the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
In response to Hamas’ call for a “day of rage,” the US Capitol Police increased security around the Capitol Complex. Officers were seen patrolling the grounds and installing additional bike racks. The police stated that they were enhancing security measures but could not provide specific details. They assured that they were working with law enforcement and intelligence partners to ensure everyone’s safety.
Speaking on MSNBC TV, John Kirby, National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, acknowledged the difficulties of carrying out a full-scale evacuation of the densely populated Gaza City. Kirby recognized the challenge of moving over a million people amidst ongoing combat and bombings. Israel had instructed north Gaza residents to relocate south for their safety, as concerns of an Israeli ground incursion into Gaza grew.
Echoing Israel’s intentions, Kirby stated that isolating the civilian population from Hamas was the objective. However, the evacuation order has faced criticism from human rights groups, and there are calls for safe passage out of Gaza for the people.
President Joe Biden is expected to speak to the families of Americans held hostage by Hamas. In an interview, Biden expressed his deep concern and stated that the US would do everything possible to bring them home. The White House previously stated that there are “less than a handful” of US citizens believed to be held hostage.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer will lead a bipartisan delegation to Israel to discuss humanitarian and security assistance with Israeli officials. This visit follows the recent trips by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Israel’s tech community continues to push forward. The sector, which accounts for nearly one-fifth of the country’s GDP, has seen some employees drafted for military reserve and has experienced the impact of the war firsthand.
As the death toll rises, Israel is resorting to using refrigerated containers as makeshift morgues for the bodies of its citizens killed in the attacks by Hamas. The containers are being used in a facility in Ramla, Israel, which is working to identify the deceased.
Residents of north Gaza are fleeing to safer areas following Israeli airstrikes. The Israeli military has called for the evacuation of civilians from Gaza City for their safety and protection. However, there is no known destination for the evacuees, and concerns remain about safe passage out of Gaza.
(Note: The original article contained certain graphic images, which have not been included in this rewritten version)
